The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Abra de Ilog, successfully conducted the three-day “Training on Cassava Production and Post-Harvest Management” on April 14–16, 2026, at the Cassava Processing Plant, Brgy. Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro.
The training aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of Indigenous Peoples (IP) farmers in cassava production and post-harvest management technologies to improve productivity and create additional livelihood opportunities within their communities.
During the opening program, Municipal Agriculturist Julius Judelito A. Amodia delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of adopting improved farming practices, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, and sustaining cassava as a viable source of income for local farmers.
Lecture discussions focused on key aspects of cassava farming, including the current status of the cassava industry in the Philippines, cassava varieties and proper site selection, cultural and nursery management practices, and the identification and management of common insect pests and diseases affecting cassava crops.
As part of the field and hands-on activities, participants gathered actual data from cassava plants and applied their learning through the practical identification of pests and diseases in the field. They also presented their outputs and insights, demonstrating their understanding of the topics discussed during the activity.
One of the participants, Mr. Poming G. Ginapi, expressed his appreciation for the valuable knowledge and practical skills he gained, particularly in improving cassava production practices that could help increase their income and strengthen food security in their communities.
“Ako po ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa isinagawang pagsasanay. Marami po akong natutunan tungkol sa wastong pagtatanim ng cassava, na malaking tulong sa amin bilang mga katutubong magsasaka. Mahalaga po ang kaalamang ito sapagkat ito ang aming pangunahing pinagkakakitaan. Bagama’t nalulungkot po ako sa pagtatapos ng pagsasanay, umaasa po kami na magpapatuloy ang inyong paggabay at suporta sa amin. Nawa’y lalo pang mapalalim ang ating ugnayan at patuloy naming maibahagi ang aming mga natutunan,” he shared.
Mr. Joel Ryan R. Pagdato, Corn Point Person, and Ms. Ira L. Gusi, Technical Support Staff, both from ATI-MIMAROPA, served as resource speakers, during which the 27 IP farmers committed to applying the technologies and practices they had learned.
